Reusable grocery totes are great for the environment, but they might be making you sick. How often do you wash your bag? Unwashed totes increase your risk for food poisoning and cross-contaminated food.
General Maintenance:
- Frequently wash your tote in the washing machine or by hand with hot, soapy water.
- Store totes in a clean, dry location.
- Avoid leaving totes in the trunk of a vehicle.
While Shopping:
- Put meat, poultry and fish in separate plastic bags before placing in the tote. This will help prevent juices from leaking and contaminating your reusable totes and food.
- Place fresh or frozen raw meat, poultry and fish in separate totes from produce and ready-to-eat foods.
Transporting:
- Clean all areas where you place your totes, such as kitchen counter or table, to reduce cross contamination.
- Make sure to wash your tote if used to transport non-food items before placing produce and ready-to-eat items inside your tote.
For more tips on reusable grocery totes visit HomeFoodSafety.org.